First words from French draft picks with their new franchises

Noa Essengue: « A legendary franchise »

This year’s highest drafted Frenchman wasted no time joining his new home. Noa Essengue (6’9″, 18) arrived in Chicago right after being drafted at #12. Between touring the Bulls’ facilities with his future teammate – and competitor – Matas Buzelis and a boat ride on Lake Michigan, the Orleans native spoke to local media to introduce himself. He mentioned being in contact with local legend Joakim Noah, and expressed excitement about joining « a legendary franchise with many championships and rich history. »

About joining a young team with a fast-paced style? « That’s the style of play I love and want. » The 18-year-old power forward aims to primarily contribute with his finishing near the basket, while focusing on improving his 3-point shooting (24.3% this season).

Joan Beringer, already mentored by Rudy Gobert

Here’s another Frenchman discovering the northern United States. The integration of Joan Beringer (6’11 », 18) to the Minnesota Timberwolves was naturally facilitated by his future mentor Rudy Gobert. Gobert called his young compatriot right after being drafted at #17, and several times after, to welcome him and offer advice. Still in awe from his days in New York during the draft, Beringer kept smiling upon arriving in Minneapolis with fellow rookie center Rocco Zikarsky.

« You can’t believe what you’re experiencing, it’s a dream come true, an incredible feeling. During the draft, I was trying not to cry… And when I landed, many fans sent me lovely messages » described the Alsatian on the franchise’s social media. The team’s President Tim Connelly considers him « one of the most unique players ever observed » who « has developed at an unprecedented rate. »

Nolan Traoré: rookie contract still unsigned

As for the third member of the 2006 generation, he didn’t need to take a plane. Nolan Traoré (6’3″, 19) was drafted #19 by the Brooklyn Nets… at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, his future home court. He had plenty of time to visit New York, as his official introduction took place six days after the draft. Along with the Nets’ four rookies, GM Sean Marks praised « his athleticism, speed, first step and ability to break down defenses. »

Armel Traoré’s younger brother said he was delighted to join « a young group that will play fast » and to settle in a « beautiful city. » Note that the former Saint-Quentin player hasn’t yet signed his rookie contract, unlike his teammates Egor Demin, Ben Saraf and Danny Wolf. The need to finalize the buyout with SQBB could be causing this delay.

Noah Penda: « A reward for all the hard work »

He also didn’t waste time joining his new franchise. The day after being drafted in the second round at #32, Noah Penda (6’6″, 20) was already on a plane to Orlando. He was in good spirits since his contract is guaranteed despite being a second-round pick. Details like amount and duration haven’t been announced yet. The Florida franchise welcomes another European prospect, as they’re accustomed to developing (Franz Wagner, Tristan Da Silva or Goga Bitadze recently).

« Going on stage and seeing the pride in my family’s eyes was an amazing feeling. It’s a reward for all the hard work over the years » said the former Le Mans player at his introductory press conference. He’ll wear #93 (his home department) and traveled with his whole family, who will help him settle before he leaves for Summer League.

Maxime Raynaud gets multi-year contract

As for Maxime Raynaud (7’1″, 22), he traveled the most by crossing the country. Undrafted in New York during the first round, he went to Dallas on draft night to his agency ComSport’s office. Then flew to Sacramento, not far from his Stanford campus, where his new Kings franchise was waiting to introduce him. As we reported, a three-year contract (two years guaranteed) was indeed signed by the Parisian giant despite being picked 42nd in the draft.

« Maxime has a unique profile, a combination of size and skills. We believe he still has great potential for improvement » indicated his future coach Doug Christie. The main interested party announced his desire to « participate in the franchise’s culture and win many games. » Not easy in a franchise that has only made the playoffs once in the last… 20 seasons. However, the Kings’ recent roster moves suggest they’re counting on their French rookie in the rotation next season.